Pennsylvania Message - The Arc of Pennsylvania
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Spring 2018 - Volume LVII, Issue 1
Pennsylvania
Message
HAVING A JOB IS IMPORTANT—
IT MAKES ME FEEL IMPORTANT
Lizzy loves her job at The Clothes Mentor in Through Work, My Daughter
Allentown, PA. She loves fashion and being Finds Her Strength
paid to touch and look at all the beautiful
clothes that are on sale. And she knows The time often known as Transition from
that what she does, that her job, is key to School to Work is not a comfortable
the success of this business. She vacuums, period. This is the time where your son
put clothes away in an orderly fashion, or daughter is still in school and we start
and has other duties such as cleaning the to plan for their future. “There are too
mirrors...all the better for the customer to many unknowns,” says LeeAnn Harwi,
see how great they look! Lizzy’s mother. “Will she have a job? Will
she be less dependent on her parents?
While getting a paycheck is good, Lizzy
Will services be available to support
recognizes that working has helped her
us? In fact, it can be downright scary.”
develop a sense of accomplishment. She
While Lizzy participated in several work
likes to hear her coworkers and Kathleen
preparation activities during school,
(The Arc of PA Consultant) tell her that
Lizzy still graduated without a job.
she is a hard worker. It makes her feel
Services were in place, but they were
very happy. But, back to the paycheck.
time limited. Talking about work and
Lizzy loves having her own money. She has
living independently were frightening
various collections and she loves buying
for both Mrs. Harwi and especially
more items to display.
frightening for Lizzy.
“I feel the key to a successful future is to
Mrs. Harwi has always been Lizzy’s biggest supporter and
always make sure you are doing the things you need to do. You
cheerleader. She believed that Lizzy would work in the
need to remember the way you are supposed to work. You need
community; that she could learn to be more independent;
to believe in yourself and when you believe in yourself, you
and that she would have friends. To this day, Lizzy takes her
can accomplish almost anything.” These are words of wisdom
responsibilities at home seriously. She always completes her
that inspire Lizzy each day. Lizzy also stresses the importance
chores, never needing a reminder to do so. So, when Lizzy
of being positive with coworkers, her family, Kathleen, and
graduated high school without having a job, Mrs. Harwi was
with herself.
still hopeful.
Lizzy is 21, having graduated from high school in June 2017. The
When the connection was made with The Arc of PA’s Discovery
Clothes Mentor is her first job.
Consultant, Kathleen Slane, all those dreams came back.
continued on page 4
President’s Message - Michael Marsh
Greetings! I hope this spring issue finds you well. The
Arc of Pennsylvania has been very busy on the advocacy
front as well as the program/service area. I’d like to first
thank the staff and many volunteers who serve The Arc of
Pennsylvania and our members across the Commonwealth. Suite 403 — Pennsylvania Place
As an organization, we continue to be a strong voice for 301 Chestnut Street
people with intellectual and developmental disabilities Harrisburg, PA 17101
(I/DD) and the families and caregivers who support people 717-234-2621
with I/DD. www.thearcpa.org
The Arc of Pennsylvania
We find ourselves in challenging times and I cannot stress
enough how important it is that everyone continue to
advocate for the rights and needs of our constituents. The Arc of Pennsylvania has Board of Directors
long been a leader in this area -- from the early days of advocacy in PA, to working
Michael Marsh, Montgomery
to close Pennhurst and change the conditions for people living in institutions. The Arc President
of Pennsylvania was an early supporter of ensuring people have supports to live with Sarah Holland, Lancaster
the highest degree of independence possible. We see this as a basic human right and 1st Vice President
the new frontier in civil rights. John Goryl, Dauphin
2nd Vice President
Believing and advocating are important. Working for change is essential – but how Joshua Stranix, Schuylkill
do we know and measure success? I see children learning in the least restrictive Secretary
environment with appropriate support as one manifestation of the advocacy work Jessica Capitani, Dauphin
Treasurer
and a measure of success. Ken Oakes, Philadelphia
The Arc of PA’s Include Me program, in full partnership with the PA Department of Immediate Past President
Maureen Westcott,
Education, is helping more and more students be successful throughout their school Lancaster PCE Representative
experience, preschool - school age – transition age – work. Just as Early Intervention
Birth to Three pays dividends for the child, the family, and society, Include Me is the
next step and enables a stronger, better, more vibrant school community. Evidence At Large Members
tells us -- when students with special needs are fully included with appropriate Frank Bartoli, Luzerne
supports, everyone benefits. The school experience is richer and more diverse. Is Richard Chamovitz, Delaware
that the end of the story? Cindy Dias, Greene
Julie Gerhart, Montgomery
NO! Competitive, supported employment is the natural next step and an area Renee Gray, Dauphin
of focus for The Arc of Pennsylvania. For several years, The Arc of Pennsylvania Hallam Harper, Montgomery
has worked with local chapters and employers like Wal Mart and Home Depot as Gary Horner, Allegheny
Pat Leo, Philadelphia
well as local stores and companies to help many more people with I/DD gain and Lisa Long, York
retain employment. More recently, The Arc of Pennsylvania has taken a leadership Michael Owens, Delaware
role in training coaches, deploying ADEPT, and supporting programs to help more Lucille Piggott-Prawl, Monroe
individuals become employed. We know that having a job, earning money, learning Laura Princiotta, Philadelphia
skills, and working with others is part of upholding the dignity of every individual. I Phil Rosenbauer, Butler
Christopher Schwenk, Delaware
invite you to read on in this newsletter to get more details and see success stories Sara Wolff, Lackawanna
from across Pennsylvania.
Despite the successes achieved through the hard work and dedication of The Arc of
Pennsylvania, the local chapters, and the hard work, dedication, and determination Ex-Oficio
M.J. Bartlemay, Merecer
of families – we still have a long way to go in all areas to continue improving peoples’ Gerald Krall, Dauphin
lives. I look forward to the continued triumphs and The Arc will help encourage
legislation and best practices to advance these priorities.
Most Sincerely, The Arc Staff
Maureen Cronin, Executive Director
MJM Shirley Keith Knox, Communications
Director, Editor
Page 2 Please visit our website at
Executive Director’s Message
Maureen Cronin
EMPLOYMENT MATTERS!
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are being recognized for their contributions
in the workforce. In 2016, Governor Wolf signed Executive Order 2016-03. This order is called
“Establishing ‘Employment First’ Policy and Increasing Competitive-Integrated Employment for
Pennsylvanians with a Disability.” The Arc of PA is recognizing PA Representative Cutler, 100th
Legislative District, for his efforts to move forward “The Employment First Act,” which codifies the
Governor’s Executive Order into law.
Think for a minute about your job or a job that you previously had if you are now lucky enough
to be retired. With the money you earned, you were valued as a consumer of services. You had
money to purchase what you wanted and needed. You had bills that you needed to pay, but you also could use your money
to purchase items that brought you pleasure such as materials for a hobby or caring for your pet. Having money also creates
opportunities. You can pay your own way to see the most recent Oscar nominated movie or join friends for dinner at the
local pub.
In addition, work creates opportunities. Perhaps you learned new skills or received some additional training. Maybe this job
was not what you had expected, and you decided to use it as a stepping stone to another more desired position within the
company or at another business altogether. Having work experience is an important determinate of future work experiences.
Most importantly, work brings personal satisfaction. Remember the feeling you have when you leave work for the day – that
feeling of accomplishment - of a job well done! Remember what it’s like to get that “pat on the back” from your supervisor
or a colleague. Work enhances your self-esteem, builds confidence to try new things, and reminds you that you are a
contributor to the community.
As The Arc, we embrace the dreams and desires people have to be full and contributing members of their communities. We
recognize the need to seek new and innovative models to assist people in locating the job that is right for them. We have
taken a lead in informing and educating others about Discovery, Customized Employment/Job Development, and Systematic
Instruction. We want to support anyone with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who wants to be employed in the
community alongside people without disabilities and earn competitive wages. We believe that people must be supported to
make informed choices about their work and careers and have the resources to seek, obtain, and be successful in community
employment.
This issue of the PA MESSAGE highlights the many benefits of having a job as well as some of the most common resources
that are now available to individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism. Of course, getting a paycheck is important,
but work can enhance a person’s life in so many ways. Enjoy this edition of our PA MESSAGE.
Maureen Cronin
To whom much is given, much is required —
not expected, but required.
— Andrew Young
Find Us on Facebook
& Connect with Us on Twitter
thearcpa.org Page 3
Having a Job is Important continued from cover
Discovery is person based. Together with Customized Employment certification for
Lizzy, they explored Lizzy’s interests our consultants. In addition, The Arc of
“Kathleen focused on getting to know
and the dreams that she had for her life. PA has offered this certification to other
Lizzy. She recognized her strengths and
Kathleen spent time getting to know Lizzy employment professionals across the
just did not allow either Lizzy or I to give
on a personal basis. All that information state. Completing this training results in
up,” says Mrs. Harwi.
was used to create a customized job. This consultants being nationally certified in
Through the Discovery Process and her is so different than what she has done Discovery, Customized Employment/Job
job, Lizzy has grown. Lizzy loves to in the past! “No longer do I look at the Development, and Systematic Instruction.
work and in fact, she looks forward to Want Ads; find an opening for a bagger; Discovery seeks to answer the question,
getting up and leaving the house. Mom tell “Johnny” that he can do that; and “Who is this person?”. Our consultants
explained that sometimes Lizzy just BOOM, now Johnny’s a bagger at the local work with individuals with intellectual
“squeals” with happiness. She likes to grocery store,” says Kathleen. Through and developmental disabilities to develop
learn new skills and be challenged. Most Discovery, the focus is on the person. a comprehensive profile. This narrative
importantly, Lizzy likes to know that she When jobs are created with that in mind, outlines the person’s strengths, interests,
is contributing. Surprisingly, Lizzy also is the person finds a job that they want to and conditions for success. All this
starting to think about becoming more do and will enjoy doing. information is used to help negotiate
independent. While this was even too a customized job. While Discovery is
While in school, Lizzie had some
scary to think about at first, Mrs. Harwi not employment, it is the first step in
opportunities for job exploration, but
notices that Lizzy is thinking more and developing employment for folks with
no success in finding employment. “I
more about what adult life means for her. significant support needs.
remember the point where the ‘lightbulb’
Mrs. Harwi knows about the benefits of went off for us. Lizzy liked putting items The Arc of Pennsylvania & Marc Gold &
having a job. She knows from her own away and matching the colors. Although Associates have developed a training
work experience that working brings I was told that Lizzy was not good at schedule to offer training for our
new opportunities, new friendships, new putting clothes on hangers, Lizzy and consultants and other employment
accomplishments, and a growing sense I knew she could learn,” says Kathleen. support providers. There is an audit
of self-worth and self-confidence. This At The Clothes Mentor, Lizzy is matching track for parents, OVR (Office of
is what she wants for her daughter. And clothes and displaying clothes on the Vocational Rehabilitation) counselors,
as she knew all along, this is what her racks. She enjoys reading the label to school personnel, and others who are
daughter is now experiencing! see what size it is and then matches the interested in learning more, but do not
piece of clothing to the rest of the clothes need the certification. This certification
LeeAnn Harwi is the mother of Lizzy.
in that area. “Sometimes we joke that a training meets OVR and ODP (Office of
clothes item that is labeled small, are Developmental Programs) qualification
Let’s Give That a Try!
“schmall “. Lizzy loves to laugh! “ requirements to provide these services
“Let’s Give That a Try!” That’s the advice in PA.
This is a new way of “doing business”.
Kathleen gave to Lizzy. Kathleen Slane
The Clothes Mentor has been a great For more information about ADEPT and
is a Customized Employment Specialist
employer. The bottom line for them – the training available through ADEPT,
for The Arc of Pennsylvania. She is from
they need someone to keep their display please contact: Nicole Turman at
the Allentown area and supports people
areas neat and tidy. Lizzy can do that. nturman@includemepa.org or Anthony
to find employment. Lizzie is a young
Chan at achan@includemepa.org.
woman recently employed at The Clothes Kathleen’s advice: Let’s Try! Yep, let’s give
Mentor in Allentown, PA. Kathleen and it a try! Let’s see what interests emerge.
Lizzy participated in The Arc’s Discovery
Process. It was through this process that
So often we gloss over the possibilities
because we think a person doesn’t fit the LEARN MORE /
Lizzy got a job doing what she loves to do! mold or fit the current job description.
Kathleen is not new to helping people find
Think differently! There is an employer
that needs what that person has to offer.
DO MORE
jobs. She has a background in Horticulture Stay Informed with PIE - The
and at one time owned her own flower Kathleen Slane is a Customized Policy Information Exchange
shop. Having lost a friend to cancer at the Employment Consultant for The Arc of (PIE) covers policy issues for
age of 44, she had that nagging feeling Pa. Kathleen can be reached at kslane@ Pennsylvanians with disabilities,
that she needed to do something else includemepa.org. their families, and advocates. The
with her life - to give back to others. Arc Pennsylvania manages PIE for
So, she sold her shop and became a job The Arc Discovery Employment the PA Developmental Disabilities
coach. Having tried the typical job finding Transitions (ADEPT) Council.
tools, she soon realized that something Email us at pie@thearcpa.org to
The Arc of Pennsylvania’s ADEPT
was missing. receive electronic alerts and the
Program has partnered with Marc Gold
& Associates to offer Discovery and quarterly newsletter.
Page 4 Please visit our website at
“LIVIN’ THE DREAM”
Daniel has always wanted to work in the food industry. Of course, Moving from New York to Pennsylvania in 2012 was the right
sampling great food is certainly an incentive, but most importantly move for the Freedman family. Not only were services a bit
he wants to make a difference - to have a purpose. He recently more easily navigated, this move created a relationship with
started a job in March, where he is employed as a utility person, the Thomas Jefferson High School. As a sports lover, Daniel
responsible for washing dishes, keeping the floors clean, and became very active with the football team. To this day, he’s
maintaining the cleanliness of the professional kitchen. Daniel is at every game and he offers a pregame locker room speech to
employed by Aramark where he is stationed at the Pirates Hall of the players. At a summer camp, he developed a relationship
Fame Club. How cool is that? with Coach Bill Cherpak. Mr. Cherpak was an offensive guard at
Pitt from 1985-1989. Now we know why working at the Pirates
As parents, Mr. and Mrs. Freedman instilled the importance of
Hall of Fame Club is exciting to Daniel and his family. Another
work in all their children. And Daniel’s responsibilities grew as he
football achievement for Daniel - Daniel was on the roster of the
got older. He most recently volunteered at the local Food Bank.
Lakeland Lancer High School football team, was in for the final
This was a great way for Daniel to learn about the professional
play of the New Jersey State championship game in 2010 and
work environment. “It’s not the paycheck that motivates
got a ring. It’s easy to see why he loves the game!
Daniel, it’s the connections and opportunity to contribute
to something,” says Mike Freedman, Daniel’s dad. Serving as Daniel lives in Allegheny County with his parents, Michael and
Daniel’s biggest advocate over the years has helped made this Cheryl Freedman. Daniel’s job success included working with
all possible. Daniel has needed numerous surgeries (11 in all) The Arc of PA’s ADEPT program. His job coach is David Wargo.
so starting this new job is the culmination of his perseverance.
“That”, says Mr. Freedman “he got from his mother!”
SHOWCASING THE PROCESS: AN ADEPT CONSULTANT’S WORK
Knowing the community and working with people is not new to “Finally, we work with the natural supports of the business to
David Wargo. What better background for an ADEPT Consultant provide the training of the job seeker via natural means at the
than working as a Pennsylvania State Trooper for 26 years. After business. I stay available throughout this time for consultation
serving the community in this capacity, David worked as a school regarding the new employee.”
police officer for over 2 years. “As a school police officer, I had
How is this different than what has been tried before with
occasion to work with students who had autism and observed
people with disabilities? It’s a different way of hiring. We are
that they were not treated with the respect or in a way that I
sort of like “Head hunters” for our job seeker, representing
felt they should have been. My wife was working with The Arc
their specific skill sets. We then find businesses that need their
of PA’s program called Include Me and ADEPT and I was ready
specific job skills. Interestingly, many businesses don’t realize
for a change in career. I really thought what she was doing was
how much money is lost when employees are taken from their
incredibly valuable, and significant, and I wanted to be a part of
specific tasks to do other tasks not in their job description.
something like that. And so here I am,” says David.
Once this is pointed out, the possibility exists to negotiate a job.
What is the process that you use as an ADEPT Consultant? First, we
Why do businesses hire? Well, first, it matters to their bottom
start with Discovery. Discovery is a non-comparative evaluation
line; it is cost effective. We connect them to talented workers
of a job seeker. Through this process we spend time with people.
who have skills they need. As a result, their business runs
We observe and participate with them at their home, in their
efficiently. Let me quote the food service company mentioned
community, volunteering, and just about anything else that
earlier, “Everybody needs a chance. People gave me one and
person does in the process of doing life. “I then write a profile
now I’m hiring others who need a chance.”
about the individual based on the observations and interviews
I conducted with people who know them, describing what it is What advice do you have for job seekers looking for a new job
they do. I then ‘translate’ that information to job tasks they can and those who care about them? Don’t sell anyone short. Often,
perform in a business environment,” explains Mr. Wargo. we don’t see the specific skill sets needed by employers; the
skills that our loved ones have. I soon learned that many things
What comes next? Job development comes next. In this phase,
that need to be done in business are everyday things -- not highly
we approach businesses previously identified or other businesses
specialized skills. Businesses, by nature, focus on the highly
that fit the suggested sites from the planning meeting. “At such
skilled aspects of that business. But, in doing so, this provides
a meeting, I would explain our Discovery process and how we
opportunities for people to find jobs that maximize their skill
see our job seeker fitting in at their business. We offer to do a
sets. Sometimes the skills most needed are those often over-
Business Analysis to see if there is a situation that would benefit
looked in the everyday needs of that business.
both the employer and job seeker. If that exists, we negotiate a
job that takes advantage of the job seeker’s skills and addresses David Wargo works as a Program Specialist for The Arc of PA.
the needs of the employer. This also takes into consideration
the conditions for success of the job seeker,” explains David.
thearcpa.org Page 5
Save the Dates 2018
The Arc of Pennsylvania, in partnership with Marc Gold & Associates, is pleased to announce
training and certification opportunities in three separate courses - Discovery, Customized
Employment Job Development, and Systematic Instruction. Each course consists of a 3 day, in-
person training with approximately up to 20 weeks of follow up certification course work. Only
one course may be taken at a time.
Discovery: A no-fail approach to assessing the strengths, interests, and conditions for
success for an individual with disabilities that would like customized employment. Discovery
will lay the foundation for creating a job that is customized to the strengths and interests of the
job seeker.
Customized Employment Job Development: Customized Employment is a
unique job position that is designed so that a job seeker with a disability can be at his or her
best, while providing real and meaningful benefits to the employer. Lean how to sell and
negotiate customized employment opportunities to local employers.
Systematic Instruction: Teach individuals already employed new job skills to help
grow their career. Systematic Instruction utilizes an evolved form of Marc Gold’s Try Another
Way to analyze and develop a teaching plan to teach new work skills to employees.
Training Options:
Dates Location Courses
July 11-13, 2018 Allentown, PA Discovery, Customized
Employment Job
Development
November 7-9, 2018 Harrisburg Discovery, Systematic
Instruction
To register, or for more information, please contact Program Manager, Nicole Turman at
nturman@includemepa.org or Assistant Program Manager, Anthony Chan at
achan@includemepa.org. You can also make general inquiries by calling The Arc of PA at
717- 234-2621 or toll free at 1-877-337-1970.
Page 6 Please visit our website atIF I WORK, I’LL LOSE ALL MY BENEFITS AND OTHER MYTHS!
connect them to volunteer opportunities.
Another part of my job is using my voice at
the local and state level. It is important to
educate lawmakers about the talents and
skills of people with disabilities.
Work has changed my life! There have
been times in my life when I did not have
anything to do. I became really down. And
it wasn’t pretty. Work helped me pull out
of the down times because it opened doors
to new people, new friendships, and new
opportunities.
William Del Toro Vargas lives in the
city of Philadelphia. You can reach Mr.
Del Toro Vargas at wdeltorovargas@
arcphiladelphia.org.
Left: William Del Toro Vargas, The Arc of Philadelphia Youth Leadership Abilities
“WORK MEANS THAT I
Coordinator & I Want To Work Legislative Advocate; Middle: Lucille Piggott-Prawl,
The Arc of Pennsylvania Board member from Monroe County; Right: The Arc of AM BEING HELPFUL LIKE
Philadelphia Board member, Shawn Aleong
BUSSING TABLES, CLEANING
My name is William Del Toro Vargas. I Coordinator or your Arc chapter. They
MENUS, WINDOWS, AND
am a self-advocate. I am employed by can help you connect to someone for
The Arc of Philadelphia. I am the Youth Work Benefits Counseling. This will help SWEEPING THE FLOOR.”
Leadership Abilities Coordinator. I am also you figure out how work will impact your
the lead legislative advocate for the I Want benefits. And don’t’ forget to check out Dane S. participates in
To Work Campaign. Yep, employment is PA ABLE.
a school age transitional
important to me! Yet so often, we get
4. People with Disabilities Can’t Learn
caught up in all the misconceptions of employment prep program
New Skills – People with disabilities are
work. Here are some of the biggest ones
going to college after graduation from in Montgomery County.
I come across.
high school. How exciting is that! They
1. People with Disabilities Can’t Work – At are learning new skills on their job. I just
one time, people thought that about me recently asked to learn some new skills at
and I proved them wrong! People with my job. Never stop learning and finding
disabilities want to work and they are
great at it. In fact, people with disabilities
are often more reliable in the work place.
the resources to do it!
5. Businesses Will Not M ake GO
GREEN
Accommodations – In my experience,
They show up regularly, get along with
most of the accommodations that people
others, and really like what they do. The
need are free or very low cost. Like my
more people work, the more it benefits
friend who needed her cash register The Pennsylvania Message
all of us tax payers.
raised up at work – that didn’t cost
2. I Have to DO This On My Own – There are anything. Or another friend that needed
is now available via email.
so many resources for people when they a wider computer screen. Just the cost of Please send your full name,
start looking for a job. You can ask your a computer. Many businesses don’t know
family and friends for help. Don’t forget what to do so it is important that we local chapter, and email
about your connections in the community. each know what we need and advocate address to:
The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation for ourselves.
and the Office of Developmental ahouser@thearcpa.org
I love my job with The Arc of Philadelphia.
Programs have services and resources for
I love talking to people about work
job seekers too.
and busting the myths. At The Arc of to receive your
3. If I Work, I’ll Lose My Benefits – Make Philadelphia, I work with city youth with electronic copy.
sure you check with your Supports developmental disabilities. My job is to
thearcpa.org Page 7UPDATE ON PENNSYLVANIA’S EMPLOYMENT FIRST EFFORTS
In March, 2016, Governor Wolf signed Executive Order 2016-03,
entitled “Establishing ‘Employment First’ Policy and Increasing
Competitive-Integrated Employment for Pennsylvanians with
a Disability.” The goal of the executive order is to make
Pennsylvania a model state when it comes to creating a climate
hospitable to workers with a disability.
Under the executive order, competitive, integrated employment
becomes the first consideration and preferred outcome of
Current Objectives
publicly funded education, training, employment, and long-term
supports and service programs for working-age Pennsylvanians • Develop provider strategies for engaging with
with a disability. To learn about our progress, www.dhs.pa.gov/ employer partners
priorities/focus-on.
• Reasonable accommodations under the ADA and
For a fourth year, Pennsylvania is participating in the
assistive technology in the workplace
Employment First State Leadership Mentoring Program
(EFSLMP), a program offered by the US Dept. of Labor, Office of
• Cultivate relationships with a broader array of
Disability Employment Policy (ODEP). The program assists states
employers, in terms of both geography and industry
to develop and implement a state plan to increase competitive
or sector
integrated employment for individuals with disabilities. Through
this program, Pennsylvania has access to technical assistance
from national subject-matter experts (SMEs). This year our focus Source: Devon D. Grant, Executive Director, Governor’s Cabinet
is Employer Engagement in addition to continuing work under and Advisory Committee for People with Disabilities. Contact
Provider Transformation. Mr. Grant at dgrant@pa.gov .
VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
SERVICES “WORK MEANS A LOT TO ME.
I’VE LEARNED A LOT OF SKILLS
AND TASKS WHEN WORKING AT
THE YMCA AND AT CHICK-FIL-A.
IN MY FUTURE I’M PLANNING ON
The Pennsylvania Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, or OVR,
GETTING A JOB. WORK ALSO
provides vocational rehabilitation services to help persons with MEANS GETTING UP AND BEING
disabilities prepare for, obtain, or maintain employment. OVR
provides services to eligible individuals with disabilities, both
ACTIVE RATHER THAN SITTING IN
directly and through a network of approved vendors. Services MY HOUSE ALL DAY, WHICH CAN
are provided on an individualized basis.
BE BORING AT TIMES. THERE IS
Statewide, there are 21 District Offices staffed with trained,
professional Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors which serve
MORE IN THE WORLD THAN JUST
Pennsylvania in all 67 counties. OVR provides a wide range VIDEO GAMES.”
of services to eligible applicants. Some services can help you
overcome or lessen your disability; others can directly help you
Jared S. participates in a school age
prepare for a career. The services you receive will be arranged
transitional employment prep program in
to meet your individual needs.
Montgomery County.
Source: You can obtain a more specific list of services, as well
as the location of the 21 offices at OVR’s website on pa.gov.
Page 8 Please visit our website atINCREASING EMPLOYMENT – FOCUS OF THE OFFICE OF
DEVELOPMENTAL PROGRAMS
“I want to work and/or have other ways to contribute
to my community. My family, supporters, and
community support me to find and keep a real job
that I like with good wages and benefits or start and
run my own business, and/or volunteer the way I want
in my community.”
– Value statement related to Employment/Meaningful
Contribution, taken from Everyday Lives, Values in Action.
Increasing employment is one of the Information Sharing Source: Kelly J. B. Arnold, Human Services Program Specialist
and Advisory Committee’s (ISAC) recommendations for the & Employment Director, Pennsylvania Department of Human
Office of Developmental Programs. People with disabilities Services, Office of Developmental Programs, Bureau of Policy
are saying that having an opportunity to work and contribute and Quality Management.
to their communities is important to them, and the Office of Kelly can be reached at kelarnold@pa.gov
Developmental Programs is dedicated to helping individuals
achieve their employment goals.
On July 1, 2017, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Service’s approval of the Office of Developmental Program’s
“WORK IS IMPORTANT, SO I CAN EARN
(ODP) Consolidated and Person/Family Directed Support
(P/FDS) Waiver renewals became effective. With the renewal of
MONEY TO HELP MY FAMILY, AND GET
these waivers came three new employment services – Advanced
Supported Employment, Benefits Counseling, and Community
A PLACE OF MY OWN IN THE FUTURE.”
Participation Supports. ODP also enhanced two of its already-
existing employment services – Supported Employment and RYAN, A SCHOOL AGE PARTICIPANT IN A
Small Group Employment (Formerly Transitional Work Services)
– to strengthen individuals’ opportunities to obtain and maintain
TRANSITIONAL EMPLOYMENT PREP PROGRAM
competitive-integrated employment outcomes. The services IN MONTGOMERY COUNTY.
are also available through the Community Living Waiver, which
became effective on January 1, 2018. These employment
services are designed to provide greater flexibility to meet the
needs of each individual.
Why is work important to you?
“Well, first off, I make money. With that money I can pay my bills. More importantly, I know I have a
job that needs to get done. I go to work every single day knowing what I need to do. I have standards
that I must meet, and I meet those standards. Having a job/a career, is much more than just the
money. Through work, I have developed as a leader. I can bring up issues at work that impact me
and other workers. Workers are more supportive of me and each other. Most people don’t really
understand people with disabilities. I am changing how my coworkers and this company understand
and support all people.” Patrick Hughes
Patrick Hughes lives in Montgomery County. Patrick has worked as a Utility Aide and Dishwasher at an
assisted living facility for the past ten (10) years. He is a leader – serving as a member of the Board
of Directors of The Arc Alliance, as Treasurer for the Aktion Club, and holds other organizational
positions. He hopes to educate decisionmakers so that they support people with disabilities! Patrick
hopes that more people can understand what disabilities are and what people do to help. Patrick lives
with his parents and two older brothers.
thearcpa.org Page 9CONSOLIDATED, PERSON/FAMILY
Consolidated, Person/Family DIRECTED
Directed Supports SUPPORTS
(P/FDS) and Community (P/FDS)
Living Waiver
AND COMMUNITY LIVING WAIVER
Employment EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
Services
Advanced Supported Employment (New as of July 1, 2017) Outcome-Based Service
Discovery A comprehensive, targeted analysis of people’s strengths, skills, interests and conditions for
success in preparation to pursue competitive integrated employment.
Outcome: Discovery Portfolio: A Discovery Profile, Customized Plan for Employment, and Visual
Resume/Portfolio
Job Acquisition Matching an employer’s needs with the individual’s assessed strengths, needs, skills and
interests.
Outcome: A competitive-integrated employment job offer evidenced by a letter, email,
documented phone call, or another form of documentation from the employer; or evidence of
self-employment.
Job Retention Intensive job coaching and support to assist the individual in stabilizing a job.
Outcome: Successful retention of a job, evidenced by the individual working a minimum of 5
hours a week for at least 4 months.
Supported Employment
Career Assessment Identifying career options based on the skills and interests of the
(New component as of July 1, 2017) individual.
Job Finding or Development Variety of activities and services to match the individual with a
(Formerly named “Job Finding”) potential employer.
Job Coaching and Support Training the individual on specific job assignments and providing
(Formerly named “Job Support”) periodic or ongoing support as needed.
Small Group Employment
(Formerly Transitional Work New minimum-wage requirement as of July 1, 2017)
Mobile Work Force Teams of individuals, supervised by a training/job supervisor, working
away from an agency or facility (i.e. maintenance, lawn care, etc.)
Work Station in Industry Individual or group training of individuals at an industry site.
Affirmative Industry A business that sells products or services and at least 51% of the
employees do not have a disability.
Enclave Individuals with a disability are employed in a business or industry
alongside those without a disability.
Benefits Counseling - (New as of July 1, 2017)
This service is intended to support the individual in understanding how he or she can be employed in a competitive-
integrated job and maintain needed benefits through available work incentives. It includes informing and educating
individuals about the following:
The impact of employment on publicly-funded and Social Security Administration benefits such as Supplemental
Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI).
Work incentives that enable individuals who work to maintain their SSI, SSDI, Medicaid, Medicare, food stamps and
other benefits, as necessary.
Income reporting requirements for Social Security Administration and public benefit programs.
Work incentives counseling.
Community Participation Supports (New as of July 1, 2017)
A broad range of integrated activities that build on the individual’s interests, preferences, gifts and strengths while
reflecting his or her desired outcomes related to employment, community involvement and membership.
Prevocational and vocational skill development services.
Staff necessary to provide supports.
Transportation to community activities.
For more information on ODP’s employment services, please contact your Supports Coordinator.
Source: Kelly J. B. Arnold, Human Services Program Specialist & Employment Director, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services,
10
Office of Developmental Programs, Bureau of Policy and Quality Management. Kelly can be reached at kelarnold@pa.gov .
Page 10 Please visit our website atEARLY REACH INITIATIVE THE ARC OF PA HONORS
– OVR’S SERVICE TO REPRESENTATIVE
TRANSITION AGE YOUTH WITH BRYAN CUTLER
DISABILITIES
“What do you want to be when you grow up?” This is a question
many of us were asked as we were growing up. For youth
with disabilities, this is often a daunting question that is filled
with uncertainty and lack of information. To assist youth with
disabilities better prepare for their transition into the world of
work and independence, the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation
(OVR) has started a new initiative called “Early Reach.”
Early Reach is an outreach initiative intended to promote State Representative Bryan Cutler is the 2018 “Legislator
successful outcomes for youth with disabilities by increasing of the Year” recipient. Each year, The Arc of Pennsylvania
awareness of OVR services and the benefits of early career honors a legislator who demonstrates exceptional leadership in
planning. The initiative adds an Early Reach Coordinator to the forwarding the needs of Pennsylvanians with intellectual and
rehabilitation team in OVR’s district offices. The Early Reach developmental disabilities and their families.
Coordinator will reach out to youth with disabilities, their
Under Representative Cutler’s successful tutelage, the PA
parents, local schools, and community agencies that serve
House of Representatives unanimously approved bipartisan
youth. The purpose of this outreach is to connect with youth
legislation - HB 1641 – which was sponsored by both Reps.
with disabilities early, beginning at age 14, so that they know
Cutler and Dan Miller. Known as The Employment First Act,
more about OVR services and can better prepare for vocational
this legislation effectively integrates people with disabilities
choices and living independently.
in their communities while providing them a range of job
Questions can be directed to the OVR Early Reach Statewide options. As Representative of the 100th Legislative District,
Specialist, Sarah Vogel, at 412-392-5973 or svogel@pa.gov . Cutler represented not only his constituents, but the broader
community of people with intellectual and developmental
disabilities, in sponsoring this legislation.
More specifically, HB 1641 codifies Governor Wolf’s Employment
First executive order by creating “The Employment First Act,”
which is designed to promote the employment of people with
disabilities at competitive wages by Pennsylvania employers.”
This legislation advances state legislative and regulatory issues
What’s important about work? important to Pennsylvanians with intellectual and developmental
disabilities and their families.
I want to be productive. Because I work, I can pay my bills,
go out to the movies, and eat at a steakhouse. I can save
my money, so I can take a vacation. I really enjoy being
around people and working gives me the opportunity to be
around some nice folks.
Eric Barnett is from Montgomery County. His job involves
filing and data entry and overall support to an early
intervention program.
thearcpa.org Page 11Non-Profit Org.
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PAID
Harrisburg, PA
Permit No. 649
The Arc Pennsylvania
301 Chestnut Street
Suite 403, Pennsylvania Place
Harrisburg, PA 17101
717.234.2621
www.thearcpa.org
The Pennsylvania Message is published by The Arc Pennsylvania.
The Arc Pennsylvania is affiliated with The Arc of the U.S. and 33 local chapters serving 57 counties and 8,000 members.
TECH TALK
Fading Workplace Coach Supports When everything is done. Try it out. Test your aura
with an App by scanning the picture of the postage meter with
the app and the video will pop up and start on
When a person is receiving support from a job coach, the screen. How about a dynamic visual schedule?
the goal is to fade the support so that the worker can Or task analysis? If a worker is learning to stock
be independent. Technology can help. Free technology shelves or prepare food, you could use the app to
is even better. view short videos of each step.
There is an app called HP Reveal. This app lets you easily We can take this a step further. You can use
create directions for a worker so that the job coach can videos that you create in other apps, if you save
fade back, and the worker can be independent. It does them to your camera roll. This provides you with lots of scope
it by using a picture to trigger a video. for play and accessibility. If you want a link to short video to
Let’s use the project of using a postage meter as an example. demonstrate this app, please email atinfo@temple.edu.
First, the coach and/or the worker can create short videos of the Tech Talk is a contribution from the Institute on Disabilities
worker going through the steps to use a postage meter. at Temple University - Kim Singleton, Director of Assistive
Technology Programs and Kathryn Helland, AAC Specialist.
Second, with the HP reveal app, take a picture of the
If you want more information on technology and tools for
postage meter.
Pennsylvanians with disabilities, please contact: ATinfo@temple.
Third, pair the video instructions with the picture of the meter edu, 800-204-7428, or visit http://disabilities.temple.edu/piat.
and save the project. This app calls each project an “aura”. You Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/PIATTempleU.
have to make sure that the permission of the aura is correctly set.
MISSION STATEMENT
The Arc Pennsylvania promotes the human rights of people with intellectual and development disabilities and
actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.You can also read
